For the first time, St Helena Hospice takes over the reins of the popular community event formerly run by Mile End Council.

Visitors to the Community Fun Day at Mile End Sports Ground on 3rd August will find more than 60 stalls, along with entertainment and activities, from high energy inflatables to a traditional coconut shy.

Jo Clarke, public fundraising manager at the charity, said: 

“We are proud to be bringing the Fun Day to our community and we are really looking forward to hosting it for the first time.

“There will be lots of exciting things to get involved with, everything you would expect from a village fete! Plenty of delicious food, drink and snacks, cheerleaders and dancers, and, of course, face painting, will be waiting for you. There may even be a few special guests!

“We hope everyone has a fun day out, with the bonus of helping St Helena Hospice to support people living with incurable illness and bereavement in our community.”

The event boasts a range of independent stall holders bringing a variety of exciting products such as handmade clothes, jewellery, toys, plushies, wax melts, and English gin. Quality second-hand items from St Helena’s own shops will also be for sale. 

Hospice doctors and nurses will be there to say hello and have a few interactive clinical tasks for people to try.

There will be a dog show with 14 categories to show off a pooch, thanks to the Foxash Fun Dog Show, in loving memory of Charles William Lock, which will be on the look out for winners of the Cutest Puppy, Gorgeous Eyes and Child’s Best Friend among other qualities.

Canine lovers will also find stalls promoting dog photography, pet groomers and tasty treats.

Human visitors can treat themselves to pizza, pies, hog roast, cakes, candy floss, ice cream, bubble tea and more, or perhaps a tipple from the mobile bars.

It’s free entry to the Community Fun Day and visitors are encouraged to walk or take the bus as there is limited parking onsite (charged at £2 per vehicle). St Helena Hospice asks people to be mindful of residents if parking on the street.

Join in the fun on Saturday 3rd August, 11am-5pm, Mile End Sports Ground, Colchester, CO4 5FP.